Ukraine Conflict: Decent People Caught Up in War

I have a lot of time for BBC correspondent Fergal Keane and for how he covers the human aspect of war. The Irishman’s style is considerate and caring. Something very evident in this report above about his visit to the village of Pisky in eastern Ukraine.

Before the war between Ukraine and pro-Russian rebels began, Pisky had a population of 3,000 people. Now, as the Ukraine crisis enters its second year, only 40 remain, and they’re mostly old or sick.

One of the 40 people remaining behind in the east Ukrainian village of Pisky, which is surrounded by fighting. (Screenshot/YouTube)

The village is near the Donetsk airport where, despite their being a nominal ceasefire in place, the war is ongoing. We heard the sound of artillery, mortars and gunfire in the distance. At night tracer bullets shoot upwards at aerial drones in the dark sky.

Good people

Keane stays overnight with Anatoliy and Svetlana Kosse, who’re both in their 60s. They’ve been together since they were 16 years old.

The couple grow fresh produce, which they share with others in the village. Anatoliy also looks after the beehives for those who have fled. They’re good-hearted country folk.

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